New Year’s Motivation - Where to Start

With a new year upon us and spring cleaning approaching, now is the perfect time to consider tidying your home. If you’re not sure where to start, check out these quick tips!

Go in the Right Order

Start with categories that are easier to work through before tackling more difficult items that may have stronger attachments. The best way to tackle tidying is:

1.       Clothes

2.       Books

3.       Papers

4.       Komono (miscellaneous)

5.       Sentimental

Bear in mind that sentimental items can exist in every category (for example, a wedding dress or school uniform in the clothing category). These difficult items can be saved for the end during sentimental evaluation.

Build a Tidying Plan

Develop a plan to tackle all of your items to choose what brings joy versus can be disposed of. It can be hard to set aside the time to tackle a full category all at once – especially as a parent or busy professional – so break it down into subcategories and schedule regular time to make consistent progress. For example, clothes can be spread into: tops, bottoms, underwear/socks, etc. Set aside at least a couple of hours per tidying session to get into a groove.

Need assistance keeping on track? Consider my home organizing services.

Focus on Your Items First

While it may be tempting to critique those you live with for their clutter, focus on your own items first. This will help alleviate stress and might even inspire those you live with to follow your example! Tidying is a deeply personal process, so ensure you have space to work quietly alone – and don’t let relatives see what you are getting rid of.

Have a Goal – Picture Your Ideal Lifestyle

While the task can seem monumental, creating an ideal for what your final space will look like can help motivate you to stay on track. As you go through, take before and after pictures and see how your evolving space matches your ideal lifestyle. Try and set a realistic deadline for finishing your tidying marathon as well.

If you’re interested to learn more, contact me for a free initial consultation!